Palestinian demonstration in Nazareth

Hundreds of Moslems participated in demonstrations in Nasera (Nazareth) protesting against Vatican's objections to building a mosque near one of the Christian sanctuaries in the city.

The Moslems performed the Salat (prayers) of Friday near a site which the Christians say witnessed the annunciation to the Virgin Mary of Christ's birth.

The head of municipality of Nasera seeks to change the site to a large square for thousands of pilgrims whose arrival in the celebration of beginning the year 2000 is expected.

Moreover, the Israeli government suggested building a mosque on this site as part of a compromise agreement.

The Vatican considered the plan to build a mosque on the site where the square is as a provocation that may threaten the visit of Pope John Paul II to Israel, which will start in the coming year on the occasion of the world's celebrations of the third millennium.